It was recently announced that the Univeristy of Nevada, Las Vegas will be saying goodbye to their rodeo team. The team has been going strong for years, and unfortunately will no longer. 

It was reported that the UNLV athletics is in a lot of debt, totaling nearly 21 million. Costs had to be cut, and the rodeo team took a hit. The rodeo team there will now be considered a club sport. The University Athletic Department made this decision, elimating the coaching staff and the funds that went towards the team. 

The coaches came out on social medias to remove any rumors and show much appreciation for everything the team had become. The Griffith family coached and heavily supported the team for 34 years, building a legacy and a highly competitive team. On Facebook, it read, “It truly feels like the end of a very special era in our lives. One that has shaped us, challenged us, and taught us more than we could have ever imagined. I am deeply grateful for the privilege of being part of such an incredible team over the years, and for the memories and lessons it has given us.” 

The team began in 1991. Since then the Rebels have accumulated 15 National Championships and 26 regional team titles.  

Although the rodeo “team” will no longer be at UNLV, students in the rodeo club will still be able to rodeo as apart of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Assocaition. Students will have much more independent responsibilities and will lack some support, but are still eligible to compete at the collegiate level. 

UNLV rodeo team has been known for putting on a standout annual collegiate rodeo at the Southpoint Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, acting as the West Coast Regional Finals. Students of UNLV who choose to continue to rodeo, will still compete in the West Coast region. 

Head coach of UNLV Rodeo for over 30 years, Ric Griffith spoke about the change, “It has truly been a priveledge and an honor to coach so many incredible student-athletes over the years. Watching them grow not only as compettitors but also as individuals has been one of the most rewarding expereinces of my life.The memories, lessons and friendships built along the way are seomthing I will always treasure. I’m deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of their journeys, and I couldn’t be prouder of the legacy this team and its athletes have created.” 

Although this marks the end of an era, under unfortunate circumstances, UNLV rodeo has made a difference in a lot of collegiate rodeo athletes lives and careers. A sincere thank you is due to anyone and everyone who has supported the team all this time.